Strickland won't challenge Kasich in 2014

JULIE CARR SMYTHAssociated Press Published: January 8, 2013 12:54 PM

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Democrat Ted Strickland won't run again for governor in 2014, removing a key competitor to incumbent Republican John Kasich (KAY'-sik) from the field.

Strickland said in a statement Tuesday that he stands by his record as governor and wont' seek the office again.

Kasich, a former investment banker and congressman, unseated Strickland as he sought a second term in 2010. It was among the most expensive governor's race in Ohio history, with combined spending approaching $34 million.

Strickland's decision leaves Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald and U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan among the top potential Democratic challengers to Kasich next year.

FitzGerald is a former FBI agent and mayor tapped to lead Ohio's most populous county out of scandal. Ryan is a six-term congressman from Youngstown first elected in 2002.